Backed to succeed

6 November 2013

Blades boss Nigel Clough is backing Marlon King to find his best form in the weeks ahead.

Clough has been encouraged by what he has seen of King since taking over as manager last month, but says the experienced marksman will become a bigger asset when he gets up to full fitness and match sharpness.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's FA Cup clash against Colchester United, Clough also commented that other first-team squad members are in a similar situation to King.

He said: "Marlon (King) had a chance at the weekend and on another day would have scored.

"We need to get Marlon as fit and as sharp as possible, like we do with all the lads, then he will fight for a place in the team along with the rest of the strikers at the club.

"We have quite a few players who haven't real done enough of a pre-season and who are having to get fitter and stronger as we progress, which isn't ideal.

"Marlon is in that category, but he is certainly working hard to make sure he contributes."